Regulation Rendezvous: Calming Corner

Believe it or not a new school year is upon us! Many of our teams are busy preparing materials and getting classrooms set up. As you plan your classroom layout, don't forget to consider your students' sensory needs and consider creating a Calming Corner within the classroom for easy access and transitioning. Today's Regulation Rendezvous features Calming Corner ideas from all over the Miami Valley.

For some students, a calming corner can be as simple as some alternative seating options like a cozy bean bag and some calming fidgets or sensory bottles.

Annette Stine
Kyle Elementary, Troy

Ann-Marie Small
Driscoll Elementary, Centerville

Bobbi Jo Chapman
Snyder Park Elementary, Springfield

Sandy McIntosh
Trotwood ELC, Trotwood

Some classrooms even have a cozy space that multiple students can use throughout the day. These are great spaces that naturally lend themselves to being a location students can go when having a difficult moment.

Nikki Tinnerman
Kleptz ELC, Northmont

Shanon Vance
Valley Forge Elementary, Huber Heights

Some students need more physical boundaries to help them remain in the designated calming corner and to provide less visual stimulation while they calm. We have seen many creative spaces using classroom furniture such as dividers, mats, an filing cabinets. We have also seen some innovative spaces created with PVC pipe structures, garment racks, and basic curtains.

Bobbi Jo Chapman
Snyder Park Elementary, Springfield

Jodie Garringer
Preble County ESC

Mark Tracy
Wright Brothers Elementary, Huber Heights

Tents are another great way to provide a clear calming space!

Bradford Elementary

Shanon Vance
Valley Forge Elementary, Huber Heights

When planning your calming corner, don't forget to consider the logistics of proactively scheduling use of the corner, teaching students how to request extra breaks in the calming corner, and how long they will be allowed to stay (and how you will communicate when time is up!). Also consider their specific sensory needs when it comes to what fabrics are used, the type of seating provided, and if they can sit quietly or if they need something to occupy them while they calm. All of these considerations will help to ensure your calming corner is a great success!